by woppaburra
Queensland is home to some of the most important marine turtle nesting and feeding sites around the world, however the threat from predators is impacting the nesting success of a number of at-risk turtle populations.
Woppaburra TUMRA has secured funding to train Rangers, purchase equipment, conduct monitoring, research and conservation activities through the Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program (NTOTPP), a joint Australian and Queensland Government initiative that provides funding for projects and activities that seek to improve the survivorship of marine turtle nests and hatchlings from terrestrial predators in coastal Queensland. Key marine turtle rookeries along the coast and on islands like Woppa (Great Keppel Island) have been identified and prioritised for active nest protection and predator control efforts.
To kick off the project, four Woppaburra Rangers headed to Mon Repos Turtle Centre for a week long training workshop that will enable them to work towards gaining the required accreditation to lead turtle conservation activities on their traditional land and sea Country.
During this time Rangers learned:
– Turtles life cycle.
-How to process and collect data from each turtle that come up to lay including measuring their shell (Carapace), checking to see if they have tags. With these numbers you can radio through to research lab and get history on the turtles,
-Nest protection
-How to safely relocate a nest if it was going to be inundated by water or foot traffic.
– How to conduct post hatching monitoring after hatchlings have emerged from their nest and made their journey to the water.
“It was a thrill to work alongside QPWS in this unique experience helping foster the delicate process of nurturing these beautiful creatures as they continue their cycle of life.
With marine turtles being endangered I felt privileged but also excited as I could hear through the radio comms some of the girls coming in for their sixth clutch of the season! I’ve learnt so much in such a hands on experience and walking away with not only the skills but the accreditation for us to now implement this back home on Woppa and the surrounding islands. I’m super proud of the Woppaburra rangers, Uwan, Tshinta, Ameron and I achieved!
Looking ahead, I hope to see more young people step up into this responsibility. It’s been brought to my attention that as older generations step aside, they are leaving a void for the youth to fill. This is our time to take the lead and ensure that our sea Country thrives.”